bfire writes: Prisoners at two jails in Australia have implemented a centrally managed and distributed desktop environment that runs on the Ubuntu OS. Desktops boot from a central server but everything executes in local resources. The desktops are assigned to 'realms', such as a cell block wing, and each realm has a system image (with the Ubuntu OS and all necessary applications) that loads onto the PC at boot and can't be modified. The makers hope the Prison PC could eventually provide a single, centrally-managed device
to replace a PC, TV, DVD player and stereo in individual cells. They also hope prison authorities will elect to stream online radio, IP and free-to-air TV, on-demand video such as for education, and even minority religious content using the system in the future. The system is already gaining international interest because it also means that custodians could deny or revoke rights to use parts of it, without having to go to the cell and forcibly remove the kit as punishment.